Category: Nature > Beach
District: Leiria > Nazaré > Nazaré
Nazaré Beach is located in the heart of the village, completely integrated into its urban dynamics. It stretches along a wide promenade, flanked by typical houses that rise up the hillside. To the north, the sandy beach is framed by the imposing promontory, while to the south it extends to the sheltered harbour area, marking its central position in the locality.
This is one of the most sought-after beaches on Portugal's West Coast, bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The sea, at times rough with strong swells, makes Nazaré Beach a suitable place for water sports such as surfing and bodyboarding. Its vast stretch of golden sand invites long walks and moments of contemplation, reflecting the natural strength and beauty of the Portuguese coast.
Nazaré Beach keeps alive the village's strong connection to the sea and its fishing heritage. On the sandy beach, it is still possible to observe the Nazarene women, in their seven-skirt costumes, a distinctive cultural symbol. They continue to tend and sun-dry fish on wooden racks, an ancestral practice that testifies to the local culture and subsistence, offering a window into traditions of yesteryear.
One of the most characteristic visual elements of Nazaré Beach are its traditional canvas tents, which dot the sand with strong coloured stripes during the warmer months. These tents, together with the Portuguese pavement of the promenade, with its wavy patterns, contribute to a vibrant coastal scenery. This combination creates a unique, easily recognisable environment that defines the beach's identity.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.5967809,-9.0739108
Coordinates DMS: 39°35'48.4"N 09°04'26.1"W